Business Details
Seattle Jiu-Jitsu Academy - BJJ Classes in Seattle
Seattle Jiu-Jitsu Academy (SJJA) has been a cornerstone of martial arts excellence in Seattle for over a decade. Founded by Professor David Stegman, a 5th Degree Black Belt with 29 years of dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience and 35 years in martial arts, our academy combines deep expertise with a passion for teaching. Our curriculum is meticulously designed to cater to all skill levels, from beginners to competitive athletes, emphasizing technical proficiency, self-defense, and personal growth. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive community where students are welcomed, guided, and challenged to achieve their full potential.With a focus on structured learning, live sparring, and practical application, SJJA empowers individuals to build confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills. Our historic location in the original Rainier Brewery building adds a unique character to our training environment, reflecting our commitment to tradition while embracing modern techniques. As lifelong martial artists, we are dedicated to sharing our knowledge and cultivating a culture of discipline, respect, and continuous improvement.
Services
Adult Trial Class
Kids Program
Private Lessons
Competition Preparation
Saturday Open Mat
Fundamentals Class
Advanced Training
Self-Defense
No-Gi Sessions
Youth Development
Highlights and features
- Over 29 years of dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience with a 5th Degree Black Belt instructor.
- Proven 10/5 sparring methodology for accelerated skill development.
- Supportive community with structured progression for all skill levels.
- Competitive coaching with multiple championship-winning achievements.
- Historic training facility combining tradition with modern techniques.
Services
Adult Trial Class
Designed for beginners with no prior experience, this class focuses on foundational techniques and controlled drilling. Participants learn basic movements in a pressure-free environment, building confidence through structured warmups and technique practice. The session includes guided mat time to develop familiarity with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu principles.
Kids Program
Structured classes for ages 5-15 teach coordination, discipline, and self-defense through playful drills and strategic training. Young students develop motor skills, listening abilities, and competitive strategies in a supportive setting. The program emphasizes character growth alongside technical proficiency.
Saturday Open Mat
Free weekly session offering 15 rounds of intense sparring with 20-second breaks, designed to improve endurance and technique. Open to all practitioners, this event fosters skill development through varied partner rotations. The gi-required format emphasizes practical application in a high-energy environment.
Private Lessons
One-on-one instruction tailored to individual goals, covering technical refinement and strategic development. Sessions focus on accelerating progress through targeted drills and scenario-based training. Available for students seeking specialized attention beyond group classes.
Competition Preparation
Advanced training program focusing on tournament strategies, rule navigation, and performance optimization. Combines technical mastery with mental conditioning to prepare competitors for events like Fight 2 Win and IBJJF championships. Includes sparring analysis and game-plan customization.
People
David Stegman
Owner & Head Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt with 29 years of BJJ experience and multiple championship titles. Trains under Carlos Machado and specializes in technical instruction and competitor development.
Matt White
Co-Owner
Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with 25+ years of martial arts expertise. Four-time Cold Steel Tournament gold medalist and film industry fight choreographer specializing in practical instruction.
Dan Syhre
Instructor
Specializes in beginner education with a focus on fundamental technique development. Certified BJJ instructor since 2022, creating accessible learning pathways for new students.
Noah Resto
Instructor
Black Belt under David Stegman with competitive experience at national and international levels. Combines technical precision with intuitive teaching methods for diverse student development.
Marco Vasquez
Instructor
Purple Belt under David Stegman with expertise in pressure-based techniques. Former cybersecurity professional bringing analytical precision to technical instruction and student mentorship.
Questions
What age groups do you accept for training?
We offer classes for children starting at age 5, teens, and adults of all experience levels.
Do you provide equipment for first-time students?
Yes, we supply clean uniforms and belts for trial classes to ensure immediate participation.
Are there competitive training opportunities?
Our competition preparation program includes tournament strategy coaching and sparring analysis for competitive athletes.
What makes your training methodology unique?
We implement 10/5 sparring rounds after technical lessons to accelerate practical skill development and adaptability.
Is prior experience required for drop-in sessions?
Drop-ins require blue belt status or higher with appropriate gear for participation in regular classes.
